Our kittens keep suckling on themselves, is there any way to discourage this behaviour or will they grow out of it?

Hi there! It's understandable to be concerned about your kittens' suckling behavior, as it's quite common among young kittens. This habit often stems from being weaned too early and is usually a comfort-seeking behavior. It's similar to thumb-sucking in children and can provide them with a sense of security.



Most of the time, kittens will gradually grow out of this behavior as they get older and gain confidence in their environment. However, there are a few things you can do to gently discourage it. You can try redirecting their attention to toys, interactive play, or affection whenever you notice them start to suckle. Providing them with a plush toy to cuddle with may also help, as it can offer a similar sense of comfort.



Keep an eye out for any signs of skin irritation or redness, which could indicate they’re suckling too much. If the behavior persists into adulthood or if you notice signs of distress, like excessive vocalization or aggression, it might be time for a deeper look into possible underlying issues.



If you're worried or the behavior doesn’t seem to be diminishing, I encourage you to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We can chat more specifically about your kittens' needs and come up with a tailored approach.